TEHRAN – At a high-level meeting on Tuesday, Iran’s Defence Minister Attorney General Aziz Nasirzadeh met with Armenian counterpart Sulen Papikian in Yerevan and repeatedly reiterated Iran’s unwavering commitment, protecting the stability of its northern boundaries and strengthening cooperation with its neighbours.
Nasirzadeh described the preservation of territorial integrity and the stability of regional borders as “unchanging principles” of the Islamic Republic’s foreign and defence policies. “The shared border between Iran and Armenia is not just a geographical boundary, but a historical and strategic connection between the two ancient nations,” he said. “Tehran will not allow interference or entry in this important corridor.”
Emphasizing the strategic importance of its relationship with Iran’s defence chief Yerevan, pointed to Armenia’s unique position in Iran’s “neighborhood policy.” He emphasized that bilateral ties depend on “a deep historical and cultural foundation,” and that Iran views sustainable peace in the Caucasus as a gateway to wide range of regional development opportunities.
Nasirzadeh also highlighted the peaceful coexistence of Iranian Muslims and Armenians as a successful model of interfaith harmony. “This is a testament to the possibility of religious and cultural coexistence and serves as an example of a wider region,” he added. “Iran’s principled foreign policy is focused on strengthening relations with all our neighbors, especially Armenia, and obstacles will not stop us from this path.”
Touching the ongoing peace process between Armenia and the Republic of Azerbaijan, Nasirzadeh expressed full support from Iran for dialogue and diplomacy. “The Islamic Republic of Iran supports the signing of a comprehensive peace agreement between Yerevan and Baku and is ready to help accelerate this important process,” he said. “The enduring peace in the Caucasus is not only desirable, but is essential to the economic and political stability of the wider region.”
Nasirzadeh, referring to recent remarks by the leaders of the Islamic Revolution during a meeting with the Prime Minister of Armenia, emphasized that Iran is determined to expand cooperation with Armenia based on mutual interests. “This cooperation continues independent of external pressure and foreign influence,” he said.
Reflecting Iran’s longstanding position, Nasirzadeh once again warned against the involvement of out-of-territorial powers in the Caucasian affairs. “The security and stability of this sensitive region must be designed and maintained by the country of the region itself,” he said. “The involvement of foreign forces does not bring about peace, but instability and division.”
The meeting concluded with the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Iran’s Ministry of Defence and Armenia, marking a new phase of strategic partnership between the two countries.